Page 14 of Mafia Kingdom

Minutes later, the roar of engines cuts through the stillness of the night. Three high-powered vehicles race toward me, their headlights piercing the darkness. I recognize Marco’s car in the lead, but it’s the sight of Lucas in the second vehicle that makes my blood run cold.

Lucas Walsh, Marco’s brother, is known for his brutality. My father’s warnings echo in my mind:“Do you really think it’s that simple?”Now, I’m not so sure.

The cars screech to a halt, and Marco steps out, his expression unreadable. Lucas follows, his eyes cold and assessing. I shrink back, fear tightening around my throat.

Marco strides over to me, his presence commanding. “What happened?” he demands, his voice leaving no room for hesitation.

I choke back my tears, trying to find the words. “They came to my house. They beat up my dad. They want Lily back, or they’ll kill him.”

Marco’s jaw tightens, a dangerous glint in his eyes. “And they are still in the house?” He looks down the driveway like he can see through all the overgrowth to the men who are there.

“Yes,” I whisper, my voice trembling.

“How many are there?” He asks.

My mind is a jumble, and it takes me a moment to answer. “Three, I think.”

“You think, or you know?” Lucas asks.

I nod. “I know,” I answer with surety now. My mind settles slightly.

Marco nods, his gaze shifting to Lucas. “Let’s take care of this,” he says, his tone cold and final.

Lucas’s eyes meet mine, and I see the promise of violence in them. I shudder.

CHAPTER SEVEN

Marco

One Hour Before

I STRIDE DOWN the dimly lit alley, each step heavy with the weight of my thoughts. The safe house was supposed to be impenetrable. How did they find us? It had to be someone on the inside. The realization gnaws at me, making my stomach churn. Betrayal always leaves a bitter taste.

I finally reach the pub, the neon lights flickering above the door like a bad omen. Pushing the door open, I step inside. The familiar scent of stale beer and smoke hits me. Baz is still at the bar, his hulking figure slouched over a pint. He doesn't notice me at first, his attention absorbed by something on his phone.

As I walk over, I see the phone light up. Sasha’s name flashes on the screen. Before Baz can react, I snatch the phone up and swipe to answer.

"Hello?" I say, trying to keep my voice steady.

“Marco? Where’s Baz?” Her words are rushed, and I don’t get to answer; like, how the fuck does she have Baz’s number?. “They…they hurt my dad. They said I have to get Lily back, or they’ll kill him. I don’t know what to do. Please, help me.”

My chest tightens hearing her cry. The protectiveness surges through me, overwhelming and fierce. "Where are you?"

“I’m on our driveway,” shesobs.

“Stay there,” I order and end the call.

I hang up and turn to Baz, who’s watching me with a raised eyebrow. “Sasha’s in trouble,” I say, handing the phone back to Baz.

I turn to Lucas, who’s standing behind me, a smirk playing at the corner of my lips. "Do you want to hurt some people?" I ask, feeling the adrenaline start to pump through my veins.

Lucas grins back, eyes gleaming. "Always. I'm in the mood for knocking some teeth out.”

I quickly call two more of my men, instructing them to meet us outside. Baz looks at me, clearly unhappy. “You stay put, Baz,” I say firmly. “This isn’t your fight tonight.”

He scowls but doesn’t argue. He knows better. I head to my car, the engine roaring to life as I pull out of the lot. Lucas follows in his own car, with the other two men falling into line behind us. The city streets blur past, my mind racing.

We arrive at Sasha’s drive, the darkness cloaking us. I see her standing there, tears streaming down her face, her body trembling.

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